Improvement of Content and Proposed Infrastructure Based on E-Stream Technology Module: Aquatic Science
Abstract:
The implementation of the Smart KEMAS Kindergarten STREAM (e-STREAM: aquatic science) module is a strategic initiative to strengthen integrated learning of science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and mathematics (STREAM) in early childhood education. However, although this module has been expanded nationally since the pilot project in 2018, internal implementation reports show that there is inconsistency in the use of the module, variation in the quality of digital content and technological infrastructure constraints between KEMAS kindergartens in various states. This situation raises questions about the level of consistency and effectiveness of the overall implementation of the e-STREAM module. This study uses a Needs Analysis approach with a mixed-method explanatory design to identify gaps in digital content, technological infrastructure and technological pedagogical coherence in the implementation of the e-STREAM module. Therefore, this framework provides a strong theoretical and operational foundation to support the study objectives in designing improvement proposals that are evidence-based and in line with the actual needs of implementation.
KeyWords:
e-STREAM module, early childhood education, needs analysis, digital content, technological infrastructure, pedagogical coherence
References:
- Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2021). Thematic analysis: A practical guide. SAGE.
- Campbell, C. (2021). Technology and literacy in early childhood educational settings: A review of research. Journal of Early Childhood Literacy, 21(3), 247–270. https://doi.org/10.1177/1468798420932318
- Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed.). SAGE.
- Dardanou, M., Hatzigianni, M., Kewalramani, S., & Palaiologou, I. (2023). Professional development for digital competencies in early childhood education and care: A systematic review. OECD Education Working Papers, No. 295. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/a7c0a464-en
- Kementerian Kemajuan Masyarakat Malaysia (KEMAS). (2024). Laporan akhir pelaksanaan modul e-STREAM di TABIKA KEMAS (Laporan dalaman).
- Kong, K. (2023). Early childhood education in Malaysia. In M. Bray & E. Thomas (Eds.), International handbook on education in South East Asia (pp. 559–590). Springer Nature. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-8136-3
- McKillip, J. (1987). Need analysis: Tools for the human services and education. SAGE.
- Mishra, P., & Koehler, M. J. (2006). Technological pedagogical content knowledge: A framework for teacher knowledge. Teachers College Record, 108(6), 1017–1054.
- NAEYC, & Fred Rogers Center. (2012). Technology and interactive media as tools in early childhood programs serving children from birth through age 8. National Association for the Education of Young Children.
- OECD. (2020). Digital education outlook 2020: Pushing the frontiers with artificial intelligence, blockchain and robots. OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/589b283f-en
- UNESCO. (2023). Guidance for generative AI in education and research. UNESCO Publishing. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000386693
- UNICEF. (2019). A world ready to learn: Prioritizing quality early childhood education. UNICEF.